The latest data from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) shows that 2,479 new cases (2,463 cases in females and 16 new cases in males) of breast cancer were diagnosed in 2007. 75% of all breast cancer cases are in women over the age of 50 years and 34% are in women over the age of 65 years. In 2007, 61 women in Co. Clare were diagnosed with breast cancer and in Co. Tipperary  98 women were diagnosed with breast cancer.

Action Breast Cancer, (ABC) a programme of the Irish Cancer Society, was established in 2000 and is now the leading provider of information and support for both diagnosed and undiagnosed women. Each year ABC reaches over 30,000 women who are concerned about breast cancer and breast health. ABC strives to ensure that everyone affected by breast cancer receives the highest standards of treatment, support and care, and to improve the quality of life of people living with breast cancer. ABC also promotes the development of breast cancer services and specialist breast units and funds research into breast cancer pre-clinical and clinical research.

"It is vital that we continue to deliver the breast awareness message to as many people as possible. We are therefore delighted that the Killaloe Pink Ribbon committee are organising this special charity walk in aid of Action Breast Cancer. The Kells Pink Ribbon walk last year was a huge success and we are delighted to see another committee come together to organise this event.

We are hopeful that through this walk we can help to increase awareness and bring relief, hope and optimism to those diagnosed with breast cancer, their families and friends." Jill Clark - Head of Fundraising - Irish Cancer Society